RUIZ POZO, VIVIANA ALEJANDRA
Preferred name
RUIZ POZO, VIVIANA ALEJANDRA
Main Affiliation
CIGG - Centro de Investigación en Genética y Genómica
Web Site
ORCID
0000-0001-9301-2614
Scopus Author ID
57211950502
41 results
Now showing 1 - 10 of 41
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Item type:Publication, Mechanistic Links Between Gut Dysbiosis, Insulin Resistance, and Autism Spectrum DisorderAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition frequently associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, gut dysbiosis, and metabolic dysfunctions such as insulin resistance (IR). Recent evidence suggests that the gut microbiota may influence both metabolic and neurological processes through the gut–brain–metabolic axis. This review explores the molecular mechanisms linking dysbiosis, IR, and ASD, focusing on pathways such as TLR/NF-κB activation, PI3K/Akt/mTOR disruption, and the action of microbial metabolites, like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). We discuss how dysbiosis may contribute to increased intestinal permeability, systemic inflammation, and neuroimmune activation, ultimately affecting brain development and behavior. Common microbial alterations in ASD and IR—including increased Clostridium, Desulfovibrio, and Alistipes, and reduced Bifidobacterium and butyrate-producing genera—suggest a shared pathophysiology. We also highlight potential therapeutic strategies, such as microbiota modulation, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) treatment, and dietary interventions. Understanding these interconnected mechanisms may support the development of microbiota-targeted approaches for individuals with ASD metabolic comorbidities. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, Thyroid cancer in Ecuador: A genetic variants review and a cross-sectional population-based analysis before and after COVID-19 pandemic(Elsevier BV, 2024-01); ; ; Objectives: The purpose of this study is to describe the genetic variants present in the Ecuadorian population and the incidence and mortality patterns of thyroid cancer in Ecuador from 2016 to 2021. Methods: The present research constitutes a nationwide cross-sectional study encompassing all reported cases of thyroid cancer (C-73) in Ecuador from 2016 to 2021. Incidence rates were calculated based on the annual population at risk, considering factors such as ethnicity, sex, age group, and the geographic location of the incidence. All data was collected from the Hospital Discharge Statistics and the Statistical Registry of General Deaths Databases. Results: Between 2016 and 2021, a total of 20,297 hospital admissions and 921 deaths attributed to thyroid cancer were reported in Ecuador. The incidence of thyroid cancer remained relatively stable from 2016 to 2019. However, there was a notable decrease in 2020, followed by an increase in 2021. Notably, thyroid cancer prevalence rates were found to be higher in highlands regions. Moreover, two genetic variants, the BRAFV600E and KITL678F, have been identified in the Ecuadorian population. It is noteworthy that women exhibited a higher susceptibility to thyroid cancer, being five times more likely than men to develop this condition. Conclusion: Ecuador exhibits one of the highest global incidences of thyroid cancer. Consequently, describing the genetic variants and epidemiological characteristics of thyroid cancer is imperative for enhancing healthcare access and formulating evidence-based public health policies. This research contributes towards a comprehensive understanding of thyroid cancer in the Ecuadorian context, aiming to improve targeted interventions and health outcomes. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, Genomic analysis of an Ecuadorian individual carrying an SCN5A rare variant(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2024-07-27); ; - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, Interplay between endogenous hormones and immune systems in human metapneumovirus pathogenesis and management(Frontiers Media SA, 2025-03-18); ; ; ; The present review explores the role of endogenous hormones, such as cortisol, melatonin, thyroid hormones, sex hormones, and insulin, in the modulation of the immune response to a human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infection. hMPV is a respiratory pathogen responsible for severe infections, particularly in vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. The virus triggers inflammatory responses through various molecular processes, including cytokine production and immune signaling pathways. Notably, these processes can be influenced by endocrine factors, such as hormones. Cortisol, through hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activation, modulates inflammation but may contribute to immunosuppression. Melatonin inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome, reducing lung inflammation. Thyroid hormones regulate immune responses via nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and JAK/STAT pathways, while hypothyroidism may alter infection severity. Sex hormones, particularly estrogens, enhance antiviral immunity, whereas androgens may have variable effects on immune modulation. Insulin influences inflammation through NF-κB suppression, with insulin resistance potentially worsening viral pathogenesis. Therapeutic implications suggest that modulating these hormonal pathways could aid in hMPV management. Strategies such as hormone therapy, glucocorticoid regulation, and nanoparticle-based drug delivery are potential routes of intervention. The aim of the present review is to understand the complex interplay between endogenous hormones and the immune system during an hMPV infection by describing the complex molecular mechanisms associated with these processes. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, The Molecular Mechanisms of the Relationship between Insulin Resistance and Parkinson’s Disease Pathogenesis(MDPI AG, 2023-08-15); ; ; - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, The effect of intermittent fasting on microbiota as a therapeutic approach in obesity(Frontiers Media SA, 2024-04-25); ; ; Rayner Zambrano-VillacresObesity, a public health challenge, arises from a complex interplay of factors such as dietary habits and genetic predisposition. Alterations in gut microbiota, characterized by an imbalance between Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, further exacerbate metabolic dysregulation, promoting inflammation and metabolic disturbances. Intermittent fasting (IF) emerges as a promising dietary strategy showing efficacy in weight management and favoring fat utilization. Studies have used mice as animal models to demonstrate the impact of IF on gut microbiota composition, highlighting enhanced metabolism and reduced inflammation. In humans, preliminary evidence suggests that IF promotes a healthy microbiota profile, with increased richness and abundance of beneficial bacterial strains like Lactobacillus and Akkermansia. However, further clinical trials are necessary to validate these findings and elucidate the long-term effects of IF on microbiota and obesity. Future research should focus on specific tissues and cells, the use of advanced -omics techniques, and exploring the interaction of IF with other dietary patterns, to analyze microbiota composition, gene expression, and potential synergistic effects for enhanced metabolic health. While preliminary evidence supports the potential benefits of IF in obesity management and microbiota regulation, further research with diverse populations and robust methodologies is necessary to understand its implications and optimize personalized dietary interventions. This review explores the potential impact of IF on gut microbiota and its intricate relationship with obesity. Specifically, we will focus on elucidating the underlying mechanisms through which IF affects microbiota composition, as well as its subsequent effects on obesity. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, Evaluating Liquid Biopsy for Circulating Tumor DNA (ctDNA) Detection as a Complementary Diagnostic Tool in Thyroid Cancer Among Ecuadorian WomenThyroid cancer (TC) is the most common endocrine malignancy, with a rising global incidence. In Ecuador, TC rates are among the highest worldwide. Generally, fine-needle aspiration (FNA) remains the standard diagnostic tool; however, due to its limitations, alternative or complementary approaches are required. In this context, liquid biopsy, particularly circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), offers a promising, minimally invasive option for tumor genotyping. Objective: This study evaluated the concordance between genetic variants identified in ctDNA and tumor tissue. Thirty-six women with papillary thyroid cancer were included. Tumor tissue and blood samples were collected, and DNA was extracted. Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) using the TruSight Tumor 15 panel identified genetic variants in both ctDNA and tumor DNA. Variant pathogenicity was assessed following ACMG guidelines. Genetic ancestry was determined using Ancestry Informative Markers (AIMs). A total of 71 cancer-associated variants were detected, with 81.69% concordance between tumor DNA and ctDNA. TP53 was the most frequently mutated gene. While most pathogenic variants were found in tumor tissue, some variants appeared exclusively in ctDNA samples on specific patients, suggesting tumor heterogeneity. Ancestry analysis revealed a predominant Native American component (62.4%). Liquid biopsy demonstrates high concordance with tumor tissue analysis and holds potential as a complementary diagnostic tool for thyroid cancer. However, challenges such as low ctDNA yield and underrepresentation in genetic databases highlight the need for improved protocols and increased inclusion of admixed populations in genomic studies. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, Assessment of the COVID-19 pandemic progression in Ecuador through seroprevalence analysis of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG/IgM antibodies in blood donors(Frontiers Media SA, 2024-06-21); ; - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, Molecular pathways and nutrigenomic review of insulin resistance development in gestational diabetes mellitus(Frontiers Media SA, 2023-09-20); ; ; ; <jats:p>Gestational diabetes mellitus is a condition marked by raised blood sugar levels and insulin resistance that usually occurs during the second or third trimester of pregnancy. According to the World Health Organization, hyperglycemia affects 16.9% of pregnancies worldwide. Dietary changes are the primarily alternative treatment for gestational diabetes mellitus. This paper aims to perform an exhaustive overview of the interaction between diet, gene expression, and the metabolic pathways related to insulin resistance. The intake of foods rich in carbohydrates can influence the gene expression of glycolysis, as well as foods rich in fat, can disrupt the beta-oxidation and ketogenesis pathways. Furthermore, vitamins and minerals are related to inflammatory processes regulated by the TLR4/NF-κB and one carbon metabolic pathways. We indicate that diet regulated gene expression of <jats:italic>PPARα</jats:italic>, <jats:italic>NOS</jats:italic>, <jats:italic>CREB3L3</jats:italic>, <jats:italic>IRS</jats:italic>, and <jats:italic>CPT I</jats:italic>, altering cellular physiological mechanisms and thus increasing or decreasing the risk of gestational diabetes. The alteration of gene expression can cause inflammation, inhibition of fatty acid transport, or on the contrary help in the modulation of ketogenesis, improve insulin sensitivity, attenuate the effects of glucotoxicity, and others. Therefore, it is critical to comprehend the metabolic changes of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus, to determine nutrients that help in the prevention and treatment of insulin resistance and its long-term consequences.</jats:p> - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, Effect of diet on the microbiota and immune system in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus(Informa UK Limited, 2024-11-30); ; ; ; Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by widespread inflammation and organ damage. Studies indicate that diet significantly influences the gut microbiota, which, in turn, affects the immune system. This article explores gut microbiota dysbiosis in SLE patients and potential mechanisms related to dietary interventions and immune function. It highlights specific dietary patterns, such as a high-fibre diet and the Mediterranean diet, that may modulate the diversity and activity of the gut microbiota. The interaction between altered microbiota and immune responses, including the regulation of inflammatory cytokines, intestinal barrier permeability, and autoantibody production is examined. This review highlights the importance of personalized dietary strategies to modulate the diversity and activity of the gut microbiota by enhancing the immune response and potentially mitigating disease progression.